A girl of 14 was left in 'severe shock' after the pet dog she was taking for a walk was mauled to death by another dog.
Hettie, a Cavachon mixed breed, was killed by another dog as she was being taken for a walk in Cheadle Hulme on Tuesday.
Witnesses have said she was 'viciously attacked' by a bull terrier-type animal on Ack Lane West.
Staff from the nearby Cottage Dental Practice ran out to help but Hettie died from her injuries.
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The girl who was walking Hettie was left in 'severe shock', her family have said.
She is still said to be suffering panic attacks and breathing difficulties.
Hettie was a mix of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise, known as a Cavachon.
An appeal for any information about the incident has been posted on a number of Facebook groups, prompting an outpouring of shock and sympathy.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “This sounds like a very distressing incident and must be terribly upsetting for the family who owned the dog - especially the 14-year-old girl walking her pet at the time.
"Owners have a responsibility to ensure their dogs are under proper control at all times.
"It’s therefore vital owners understand the circumstances likely to lead to their dog being aggressive and also the signs of potential aggressive behaviour in their dogs so that they can take steps to prevent incidents from occurring. Keeping dogs on a lead in appropriate places can also reduce the risk of incidents.
"We urge anyone with concerns about their dog’s behaviour to seek advice from their vet who may refer them to an appropriately qualified clinical animal behaviourist.
“If your dog is attacked by another dog, we advise you to report this to the police.”
Greater Manchester Police has been approached for a comment.
The force has not responded but the owners of Hettie have reported the incident and have urged anyone with information to contact GMP.
Officers can be contacted on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
